“Ears Will Talk” Bjorn Quenemoen
Bjorn Quenemoen’s music could best be described as progressive folk with a distinctive sound. It borders on lo-fi but is most definitely not — as the five-piece band uses muted horns and strings in addition to guitar, bass, mandolin, Wurlitzer organ, drums, and more throughout the 10-track CD. Each composition is nicely produced, but most remain spare — relying on two-part harmonies and a limited number of instruments. Beautiful at times, always thoughtful, and sometimes even playful — this CD will fit with a lot of shows. Originally from Minnesota, Bjorn Quenemoen now lives in Brooklyn, New York. This is his second CD. It was originally released in 2008. RIYL Paul Simon, REM, Dry Spells, Sufjan Stevens, Nick Drake.
— Francis

Recommended: 9, 2, 4,10, 1 No FCCs detected.

1. (3:24) Peaceful ballad with a slight folk feel to it. Rich female harmonies and lovely use of strings. Very reminiscent of the Dry Spells. **
2. (4:55) Interesting dynamics in vocals and accompaniment. Very much a Paul Simon sound to the lead vocals. Excellent. ***
3. (4:19) Syncopated rhythm. Sleepy, muted horns. Free form lyrics that don’t rhyme much.
4. (4:36) Intriguing opening with piano and slightly distorted electric guitar. Simple melody with poignant lyrics. Unresolved ending could be commentary on the uncertainty of relationships. ***
5. (4:26) Electric guitar, banjo and prominent drums. Has the raw feel of an early David Crosby or Neil Young composition. Country-style banjo playout at end.
6. (4:01) Wurlitzer organ is added to the usual guitar, bass and drums. Once again, harmonies add a nice dimension to the tune.
7. (5:09) Electric guitar gives this track more of an edge. Melody seems to meander a bit with Neil Young-like, slightly off-key vocals. Free form vocal harmonies and synth whistle at end.
8. (4:03) Bright crisp electric guitar opens. Simple melody that accompanies lyrics about New Year’s resolutions not kept.
9. (4:27) Beautiful high male vocals with clear, bell-like electric guitar and backbeat snare drum. One of the best tracks on the CD. ****
10. (3:37) Smooth country-folk flavor to the sprawling guitar work on the closing track. Mandolin? The simple pleasure in being alive. ***